Here’s a timely gift idea for getting leaves off of your grass, where they can be such a thick cover that they’ll smother your greenery, and create conditions for plant infections to grow over the winter months.

Instead of raking, use a portable leaf vacuum to suck them up and add the leaves to your compost pile. Yard vaccums can be gas, electric or battery powered. For ease of carrying, models with shoulder straps provide an additional layer of comfort.